UGA

By GREG

March 19, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

WE CAN WIN MAN!

By Wozzo the Wonder Dog

March 19, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Any chance the AJC will post an NIT bracket? How ‘bout an updated women’s bracket?

Maybe it could be posted “off the record”.

By Defacto

March 19, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

This is not a slam but how can you go “off the record” (coach Dennis Felton said he didn’t want to talk about it. He asked to go off the record with me and another reporter and we granted it. Then he said it most definitely has an effect.) and then turn around and print the comments? Just wondering if this is a violation of the trust or if there is another explanation.

By AltamahaDawg

March 19, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

I realize this isn’t the traditional “print”, but is that what he meant?

By gdawginkalamazoo

March 19, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Chip, going to be a tough one. Tough team and the altitude to boot. Sounds like Felton knows what to do. How did Western KY do against Denver when he was coaches? Or maybe he doesn’t?

For my journalism 101 class, what does “off the record” mean? Maybe I watch too many movies but I always thought that he didn’t want what he had to say printed or reported. That it was just background info for your listening pleasure. But beside that point who would go to Colorado and say that the altitude isn’t a factor? Maybe the Raging Sherpas of Tibet?

By DAWG fan in the Springs

March 19, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

The DAWGS can beat Air Force…I will be there cheering them on!!

By cp

March 19, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Chip- Did we bring or is there oxygen available for the players during the game/halftime? thanks.

PS I tend to agree with the other comments regarding the off the record issue.

By gdawginkalamazoo

March 19, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

That should read when he was “coach.”

By Cuz

March 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

One added benefit, it takes less beers to catch a buzz.

Beautiful views of Cheyene Mtn and Pikes Peak. I went up Pikes Peak one summer day. It was 83 at the base of the mountain and snowing on the summit. Lack of O2 had me thinking I could bounce like on the moon. I hope they have oxygen on the bench sidlines. They may need it.

Hey Chip if you get a chance check out the Garden of the Gods. They even have their own bigfoot crossing. I wonder if Bigfoot has any eligibility left, he would be a monster under the boards.

By gdawginkalamazoo

March 19, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Cuz, You are correct on the buzz. The bush league team in Grand Rapids, MI just got this guy from China, Sun Ming Ming, I think is his name. Anyway the dude is 7 foot 9 inches tall. He would crush Bigfoot under the boards. Freaky watching that guy dunk. Looks like me on one of those goals with the adjustable backboard set at 7’. Talking about a slamfest.

By Chip Towers

March 19, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Hello again. Cuz, actually I just got back from hiking the trails at Garden of the Gods. That’s a really cool place. It truly is a wonder what Nature can do with some red and white rock and about 300 million years of wind, water and geological energy… .

Look, about the off-the-record stuff, Felton didn’t want to be quoted in a story about altitude and didn’t want his players asked a bunch of questions about it. I did neither one. In addition to soliciting discussions, these blogs are also to provide readers some behind the scenes glimpses of the work we do and that’s what I was trying to share with you. “Off the record” is generally reserved for topics of a little more, ahem, gravity. As for the trust issue, Coach Felton and I are just fine, thank you.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 19, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Chip, how the heck can you grant Coach Felton off the record privledges and then turn around and tell us what he said? Dude, I know this is electronic media and is a new medium, but that has to be bad form on your part. Off the record should mean off the record, no matter the medium. Those who aren’t completely dumb know full well that the altitude is going to be a problem, and your description would have been more than enough without betraying an off the record confidence.

With that said, we can still win. Slow down the tempo. No fast breaks. Keep it slow. Pass the ball when you get down to the offensive end. Just like at Hickory, Coach Felton should demand four passes before the first shot to keep the pace slow. And then pound it inside. Don’t settle for jumpers, don’t jack up three’s that have no chance. Play a boring game, and we can win.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 19, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Okay, Chip, I understand where you are coming from. Sorry for jumping the gun on the admonishment.

By GREG

March 19, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

I HOPE WE CLIP THERE WINGS OUT THERE MAN IN ALL THAT AIR YALL KEEP TALKING ABOUT MAN!!!WE CAN DO IT IF WE PLAY GOOD!

By AltamahaDawg

March 19, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Chip, have you met this crowd?

By AltamahaDawg

March 19, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry, and I have resisted, but that damn GREG does make me laugh.

By mcdawg

March 19, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

unless air force players read the blog i don’t think it is a big deal-however, he does indeed need to address the issue with the team -things such as dehydration and acclimation-hopefully the team arrived on saturday and had a chance to adjust-and yes the beers go to your head a bit quicker but the hangover is oh so nasty

By Matt

March 19, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

What is ESPN U? How can I watch the game if I have comcast cable?

By DAWG fan in the Springs

March 19, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

You folks are making too much of the altitude!! Chip will look for you at the game!!

By GREG

March 19, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

I LOVE ALL OF IT TOO MAN!WE CAN BEAT THEM!

By GREG

March 19, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

I LOVE ALL OF IT TOO MAN!WE CAN BEAT THEM!

By but really

March 19, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

What does #39 have to say? I am sure it will be a nonsensical rambling.

Enjoy the Rockies, Chip. I envy you.

By Matt

March 19, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Chip isn’t exaggerating the effects of the altitude, and the arena is about as high altitude-wise as you can get at the Academy. They’d better have O2 on hand or this thing will be a blowout by the second half because the Dawgs will be sucking wind.

By Darren in the Springs

March 19, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Keeping enough water in your body out here is vital. Since it is very dry here it is important to keep yourself hydrated or you will have problems.

Until your body completely adjusts to the altitude you find yourself drinking more water than you can imagine. I have been out here a little over a year, and I only cut back around the 6 month point.

As everyone has said it takes 2-3 weeks for your body to makes its initial adjustment, and believe me you do get winded walking around or climbing stairs.

With that said, I have to get ready for the game tonight. Maybe I will see some of the AJC reporters there, but I will be cheering for the Falcons since I am a Tech fan. Good luck though and GO FALCONS!!!

By Robb

March 19, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

Is there a journalistic equivelant to the ‘Darwin Awards’? Good ole’ Chip would have surely been the winner for this article. ‘Off the Record’ means just that Chip… Good Job at furthering the credibility of the journalism profession.

By Rick

March 19, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

Chip

Nice try at spinning your breach of journalistic ethics (pardon the oxymoron.) How can you possibly excuse your breaking your promise to the Coach? Oh yeah, I forgot—-if it’s a “journalist” involved, you can break your word at any time so long as it’s for the “sake of the story”. Outrageous.

Go Dogs.

By Chip Towers

March 19, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

By the way, he’s a link to an NIT for those of you who were asking:

http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/nit/sports/m-nit/auto_pdf/2007-Bracket.pdf

By Paul in J-ville

March 19, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

Chip,

What kind of Journalism are you speaking about? “off the record” means “OFF THE RECORD” meaning Coach Felton DIDN’T want it in print! Are you thick or do decide to re-invent the meaning to fit your liking? I like the way you assume Coach Felton is fine with you and everything is hunky doree according to you that is until he finds out you broke the trust factor with him. Are we to believe the players never go to blogs? Get real…you’re way better than that.

On the game, I still stick with my assessment that the men in uniform have much too good of a fundamental game for the dawgs. They pass extremely well and have alot of ball movement with a pretty talented bunch. Unfortunately, the DAWGS will go down tonight. Still love what Coach is doing with the team and know next year will be even better. This guy is an architect and is doing it the right way.

By Oddjob

March 19, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

Felton will see back door cuts in his sleep.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

hE’S SEEING THEM NOW. WE’EW WAY DOWN FOR 10 MIN. OF PLAY. jUST THINK AND USE SOME DISCIPLINE IN YOUR PLAY. COME OB DAWGS!

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

33-14 AF

By jerrydog

March 19, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

chip, looks like we can start planning for next year, any name opponents on the horizon for next year? Wisconsin again and at Gonzaga I am assuming.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

hard game

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

mini run cut the lead to 19 but is there any gas left for the 2nd half?

By bigdawg

March 19, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

yeah…not lookin so good

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Chip are you writing your 1st half story? Can you get us a look see and update?

By Dawgs2007

March 19, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Man this is BAD! How embarassing! We are getting it handed to us by a bunch of little white boys. I thought we were supposed to be tougher than them.

Chip, please do not insult our intelligence by blaming this on the altitude. You are the first to make excuses for the program.

I am glad to see thet Mrs. Felton’s recipes are important enough to post on a blog. I think you need to check the end of your nose, you seem to have a little something on the end of it.

By GREG

March 19, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

DAMN MAN..WE LOOK LIKE WE DONT WHAT WERE DOING ON THAT DARN COURT MAN!

By Matthew at the SLC

March 19, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

Coach Felton has to go. Dude, have his office locked and his crap on the street before the plane gets back. He is a fraud.

I heard Burger King on the Atlanta Highway is hiring. He would be welcome there. He will be loved and cared for by his own.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Hate to say “I told you so” but the A.F. Academy has done as predicted and we weren’t ready. When’s the Spring Game?

By GREG

March 19, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

ANYBODY ON HERE THOSE GUYS DOING THE GAME LAUGHING AT ARE DEFENSE!I’M GOING TO BED MAN!THANKS ALOT YOU GUYS FOR PLAYING HARD!THAT WAS PLAIN OLE AWFUL AND THEY SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES ON THE WAY HOME!!!GOOD NIGHT!!!

By GREG

March 19, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

OH THE LADY DAWGS DID THERE THANG MAN!

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 19, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Greg, that’s what I warned about. The old weave offense of Princeton and their “in your face” “D”. Chip’s take will be interesting.

By Matthew at the SLC

March 19, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Chip is a jock sniffer!

By BadgerDawg

March 19, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Wow, I’m glad my cable co. doesn’t have ESPNU and my switch to DirecTV hasn’t gone through yet. I didn’t think we’d win, but that is ugly.

One silver lining: maybe BuLL will stop talking about all the SEC teams that deserved bids after this and the 8-9th place ACC team mauling the SEC West champ. I doubt it, but we can all hope. Air Force is a team that deserved to get in.

Matthew at the SLC, I usually enjoy your posts, but after that Felton post maybe you should get to the mall for the next white sale. I’m sure there will be a lot of sheets available on discount to add to your wardrobe.

By Gen Neyland

March 19, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

BadgerDawg

Don’t let BuLLdawg get in your head. That’s his game. Some people thrive at p’ing off others. He’s one of them. Probably gets little wet spots on his dirty BVD’S by ruffling feathers…

My Final Four is still intact…UT, Vandy and Memphis still hanging around. That’s good for a Tennessee guy…

Ya’ll had a good BB season. You went on after the SEC Tourney and that bodes well for next year. Congrats on the turnaround…Go Vols

By Gen Neyland

March 19, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

…and go you Gallopin’ Gopher puckheads…

By Darren in the Springs

March 20, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

I was at the game tonight and I was happy with the outcome. It did not surprise me at all that UGAg might come in here and think they would bully the Air Force players around.

This Air Force team is amazing and the crowd was into it the whole game. It was LOUD the entire time. The Georgia players were frustrated and confused after about 2-3 minutes into the game. Around the 10 minute mark of the 1st half they were all bent over sucking wind. Meanwhile Air Force was running all over the place.

Talk about a disciplined team that runs the Princeton offense to perfection. They would make on average 5-6 passes before even looking at the basket. Georgia had no idea where the ball was going next. Even when they had the ball they were timid. Air Force played their match up zone to perfection also, which caused problems all night long.

Now everyone sees why Air Force would have gotten an NCAA bid if they had not messed it up for themselves.

By K-9 Teeth

March 20, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

I wouldn’t get too worked up over this season ending performance tonight. The home teams have the decided edge in round 2 of the NIT because, remember, round 1 was played before the “real” tournament (the NCAA) tipped off. Teams like the Dogs thought it was cool to be playing in the post-season, then Thursday and Friday rolled around and they watched the real deal NCAA and reality sunk in as they came to the realization that they were playing for the coveted “We’re number 66” trophy. Couple that with a trip to Colorado Springs and an arena and student section that thought they were doing something and that equals this crappy performance. Overall, good year for the Dawgs. The pressure will be on Felton to get in the Dance next year. If we stay eligible and healthy, I think we’ll be there.

By The Truth

March 20, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Greg…keep posting…hilarious stuff man. Any word on Vince Vance’s knee injury during mat drills?

By K-9 Teeth

March 20, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

Only DePaul went on the Road and won in the second round of the NIT. The other 7 second round games were won by the home team.

Avg. margin of victory was 19.7 pts.

As mentioned earlier, I guess it pays to be the home team in the NIT.

By bigdawg

March 20, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

badgerdawg: i thought people would be smart enough to realize this, but since there is no way to register a name on here (which is absurdity) there are posers out there who pretend to be others who blog on here. If you read the real Matthew’s other blogs you would know that he is a die hard UGA fan and an avid supporter of Felton.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

Said what would happen before hand so I just wish that we had played with a deffenseive discipline. A couple of you sais you were there, am I missing the boat/

By Darren in the Springs

March 20, 2007 1:02 AM | Link to this

I only live 15 minutes from the Academy Buck. I am an avid Tech fan in the military, and I also follow the Air Force programs since I am in the Air Force.

It was almost a sellout tonight (almost 5700). There were a handful of Georgia fans spread out in the crowd. If you can imagine a gym that is blue inhabited by 5700 fans all wearing blue that is what it looked like inside.

It was hard for Georgia to get anything going on either end. After they took a 5-4 lead Air Force turned up the jets (pardon the pun) and ran away with it. The altitude may have had some affect, but I really dont think they were well prepared for the way Air Force plays.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Darren in the Springs.

By Dirty Dawg

March 20, 2007 2:29 AM | Link to this

From the sound of it, what Georgia, and Stegman Hall, need is to get us a bunch of right-wing, religious nuts on government scholarships to perch around the visitor’s bench and yell at them from beginning to end…oh yeah, we can dress ‘em in some cute little uniforms too…won’t that be special.

By BadgerDawg

March 20, 2007 7:28 AM | Link to this

Big, I thought that may be the case, which is why I regretted putting it on there after I did.

By Anonymous

March 20, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

Dirty Dawg, why don’t you take your nasty anti-military attitude and leave. UGA fans do not need your kind here or anywhere else that someone might associate your attitude with our school, teams and fans. Get lost.

By GREG

March 20, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

I HOPE WE GET SOME BOYS THAT CAN THANK AND ADJUST AND PLAY THE GAME WITH SOME FIRE MAN!THAT DEAL LAST NIGHT ALMOST MADE ME CRAP MY PANTS MAN!THEM BOYS WERE THROWING THE DAMN BALL DOWN THE COURT WITH NONE OF OUR GUYS ANYWHERE AROUND MAN!I HOPE ALOT OF PEOPLE DID’NT SEE THAT CRAP MAN!WE REALLY LOOKED LIKE WE GAVE UP IN THE FROM THE GET GO MAN!I’M READY TO WIN AT A HIGH LEVEL IN FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL!!!I HATE LOSEN LIKE THAT MAN!!!!

By GT80

March 20, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

I just wanted to come over to the UGA blog and tell you guys congrats on a decent year. I know it’s not to the level you want but you have a fine coach who is gonna get it right. And keep coming to the Tech blogs and showing what asses you can be. Interesting that I am the only GT fan posting here yet there are many UGA fans ranting on the Tech blog. Grow up you bunch of douches. As for the UGA fans who don’t come on the Tech blogs, see my first comments. I look forward to continuing our competitive rivalry.

By GREG

March 20, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

GT80…GO BACK ON OVER THERE MAN!

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this

BadgerDawg,

I had hoped by now that most of y’all would have realized that the person who posts outrageous, racist blogs isn’t me. It’s my Idiot Redneck Stalker. I picked him up on the Falcons Blog because he didn’t like me exposing his idiocy and the illogic of his racism. So, just like the KKK member he is, he hides behind my name on here (like he hides behind his sheet at the KKK Sunday Brunches and Flag Burnings) and tries to ruin my good name by attributing his trash to me. Obviously, he’s never stepped inside a classroom at any level above 10th grade, and is as big a piece of trailer trash as I’ve ever seen.

I wouldn’t want Coach Felton to go anywhere. Men of character, like him, are few and far between, and no matter what happens or happened, UGA is a better University for employing Coach Felton.

Guys, you know I’m not crazy, and hopefully, y’all know I deal in logic, reason, and most of all perspective, as well as passion. My Idiot Redneck Stalker employs none of those things when he posts as me. Ignore him, and he will go away.

The Dawgs are on the right track. And I’m proud of what they accomplished this year, and so should every Dawg fan in the Dawg Nation.

And Chip, if you’d like, you can make my Idiot Redneck Stalker disappear. If you want to take a minute to have the ajc net minders ban his IP Address. It would clear up much confussion. The guy is such an idiot, he probably doesn’t get that the people behind the scenes know he isn’t me.

By Harry from Hiram:

March 20, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Matthew at the SLC:

Perhaps you should stop attacking other people who post on the blogs and maybe your stalker will leave you alone. This is an open forum where everyone is entitled to thier opinions and a place to release their frustations about the local sports teams. My guess is that you find peace on the blogs if you lighten up on everyone.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Harry,

I only attack those who deserve to be attacked. Otherwise, I get along with anyone with a differing opinion. But if you are a blatant racist, and that is the only motivation behind your arguments, you deserve to be attacked. If history has taught us anything Harry, you don’t cower to those kind of people. You erradicate them and their hate speech.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

I mentioned this when Stuke was suspended for that Game based on his words. He mentioned something about “other things this season”. Those maynot be his exact words but pretty close…….Chip, if you read this, now that the season is over can you fill in what he was talking about?…..I’ve waited on purpose for the season to end this question up again.

By Harry from Hiram

March 20, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Matthew at the SLC:

Now you are attacking and scolding me for trying to help. You should really take it easy. But thanks for the history lesson. Now if you could focus on sports, that would be wonderful.

By Harry from Hiram

March 20, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Matthew at the SLC:

Now you are attacking and scolding me for trying to help. You should really take it easy. But thanks for the history lesson. Now if you could focus on sports, that would be wonderful.

By Harry from Hiram

March 20, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Matthew at the SLC:

Now you are attacking and scolding me for trying to help. You should really take it easy. But thanks for the history lesson. Now if you could focus on sports, that would be wonderful.

By BadgerDawg

March 20, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Matthew, please see my post above. I realized after I posted that I shouldn’t have because it was unlikely that it was really you. It did seem a little out of character. I have not noticed your stalker before and thought maybe you were really mad about the game. My mistake.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Buck, it would be nice to know what Stukes meant. I hate to think that this guy, who seemed to be pretty stand - up during his 4 years here might have been an attitude problem for Coach Felton. Sometimes I really do wonder if the culture that we the fan create make these guys into monsters like T.O. and his ilk. It has to be hard, especially on a 22 year - old, to recieve the kind of praise these guys get and not get a big head about yourself. The guys who come off well, the guys like Tony Taylor, DJ Shockley, The Davids and such… I wonder what seperates them from the guys like T.O. Is it as simple as parenting? One wonders.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Harry, dude, if you think that was attacking you, then you need to learn a thing or two. That was me disagreeing with you. If I wanted to attack you, you would know the difference. Was I meanspirited? Did I insult you? No, I disagreed with you. Come on man.

BadgerDawg, thanks. I was upset about the game, yeah, but not mad. I don’t really get mad a lot when it comes to the Dawgs. The lone exception the last few years has been Coach Mark Richt’s love of the sprint draw out of the shotgun formation. When I see that run 20 times a game for 11 yards, THEN I get mad.

By Huskdawg

March 20, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Amen to that Matt! I absolutely hated to see that play go for 1, 2, or no yards. I know my big screen got tired of me yelling at it. I hope Bobo really mixes things up this year. Can’t wait to see a more mature Stafford and see what some of these redshirts can do. September can’t get here soon enough. Go DAWGS!!!

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Mathtew at the SLC, I wanted untill the season was over because that, IMO, was not to bring upt something that could be devisive at that the point in the season. Now though is the time to find out what he meant. It’s probably no big deal so this is a place whereCHIP(IF YOU GET DOWN THIS FAR BEFORE YOUR NEW BLOG) TO HELP US OUT.

By Bobby Cremins

March 20, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Air Force takes it to the Dawgs!! Long ways to go boys, long ways to go before you can even consider competing in the ACC.

Talk about a blowout!! Whew!!! Big Time!!!

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

HuskDawg, hope no more. If you saw the 2nd half of the CFB game you saw the Dawg “O” of the future and Stafford playing more lke a Jr. rather than a Soph. He still has a lot to learn but he comming right long and we’ll a get look at his progress in the 2nd game for sure. SOS knows how to take a QB out of a game so Stafford will be looking for hidden D’s to try and get him shook. Won’t happend but you do understnd that after getting beat last year by a true freshman QB and losing two in a row SOS will come loaded with everything he has. Come on!

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, I can’t believe Chip hasn’t told us about this, but I heard in class today that it’s Pro Day up here in Athens. Guys like Taylor, Moses, Johnson, etc. (not to mention Div 1AA schools in the region) are going to be showing their stuff for pro scouts. I wonder if it’ll be in the stadium or on the practice field. Chip, let us know what’s going down with Pro Day today. And for the love of God, please don’t tell us that Strickland is covering Pro Day.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Matthew, bet with Chip on a travel day. it’ll be Carter unless the ajc decides that it won’t be all Ga. FB

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Matthew, 20 times a game or 4, as it really was? Thats also a QB read, not a love affair from the HC. An out, a safety valve, when the other stuff doesnt look open. Or in our case, prabably overused early on, but what would you expect with a FRoshQB learning, that needed the play. You can clearly see later in the year MS using it more sparingly, to set up a bigger play, and actually had a bit of success later in the year. See any trend there, ineffective, overued early, better results, less often, later on?

Ran it a few times wih Bobo at the headset, last couple of games, (scored once) and he is no more in love with it than Coach Richt. We also scored 3 other TD with it last year (can you name any other play that we scored 4 times with) it was very instrumental in a number of game. BY the way there were PLENTY of plays that we were horrible at last year. as much as everyone want to just pound it straight up, how did that usually work?

I dont really “like” it either, its boring, but every school in the SEC and around the country use it the same as we do.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Altahama, you led the way and we just agreed. We won’t need to reley on it as much this year but when the play is used properly It’s a good one . Got to go, catch you later.

By Dirty Dawg

March 20, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Well ‘anonymous’, by your reaction I gather that you’d be proud to have Georgia’s reputation be one of a bunch of right-wing, religious nuts…I don’t happen to share that point of view. As for my ‘anti-military’ (your term) feelings, having served in the Air Force and been pretty proud of that, my comments were prompted by recent revelations of institutionalized behaviors run amok that have persecuted members of the Academy that didn’t happen to share those ‘endorsed’, dogmatic, religious beliefs..something I’m not proud of and neither should any of us that fund the school.

Regardless, devoting a group of students to surround the visitors bench and yell constantly at the top of their voices, isn’t behavior that I would find particularly flattering…either at Georgia or the Air Force Academy.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Less reliance, or rather much more disciplined and successful use of the sprint draw was absolutely a by product of MS getting more comfortable later in the year. I think we have always agreed on that.

What I have always had an issue with is just saying, never run that play, without realizing that was prabably a reason we had to. Obviously us and everyone else wouldnt be running it if it trully were useless. It just seem to me that the ol’ sprint draw just became a “hip” thing to complain about last year, without really saying what the real problem was. We just werent very good on offence. That play was prabably one of the least things not working.

By Cuz

March 20, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

And then depression set in.

Oh well back to football. Yeah the sprint draw is boring. No doubt about it. Sure it does work sometimes. But it is not an exciting looking play like my fave, the Power I. Yeah those days are gone like Herschel.

Matthew, for the record, I despise racists also. Judging someone by their color is asinine and prevents someone from actually finding out about the individual in question.

Buck got your message. Keep up the fight brother. I hope to meet you at the party formerly known as the cocktail party.

By bunion buster

March 20, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Buck and ya’ll I’d like to start a conversation on who could step up and play first game from the freshman and redshirt classes.I’m not getting into the o-line, even though there are guys who doubtless will step up.Six guys come to mind Vance Cuff, Charles White, Rennie Curren and Jarrius Wynn are the true freshmen Noshawn Moreno and Darrius Dewberry are the redshirts.Vance Cuff will be a monster on special teams where it is easiest to get time early,he is a bigger stronger Mikey Henderson type I see as a real difference maker.Charles White and Rennie Curren will also contribute on special teams and probably some on passing downs.Moreno and Wynn will be stars early and will see the field in the first quarter of the first game(OK ST) and Dewberry will get in before the game is over. So how does this compare to your view? I,ve got a vet appointment but I’ll reply later today.

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

I posted as bunion buster it was an accident.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

OddJob (why not Jaws or P*** Galore?),

I think Moreno is the best bet. I love Lump, but I think if any guy can finally bust through Coach Richt’s insane RB rotation and get 20 carries a game consistantly, it’s Moreno. The guy is like LenDale White, but in much better shape. He’s a pounder. I guess like Michael Bush from Louisville. Then, next year when King comes on, we’ll have a combo at running back much like USC did for a couple of years. As for who might be the odd man out in the RB rotation, I think Brown might be relagated to the role that Tony Milton assumed after getting hurt. He’s going to handle kicks and punts. He’ll come in 4 wide-out sets. But he won’t get much work. Moreno and Lump are just built to carry the load, and I don’t think Brown is. He’s the Dave Meggett (NY Giants reference) of this team.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Matthew, what has been insane about the rotation?

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

Unless circumstances were to force it, we won’t have a RB RUN the ball 30 times in a game:however, they may get 20 touches threw a combo of passing and running.Bobo,as he’s said is building and “O” around Stafford and Matthew said his job will be to get the ball in the hands of the playmakers. I know a lot of my friendes maydisagree but I believe we’ll see BOTH of the guys, Logan Gray and alon White, play as true freshmen in special situations. Both freshman are known as pass catchers, Gray, in pads runs around a 4.5-5.0 I think so they could be a really nice package. Bobo has said that Moreno has to lean the system so he’s newbie but he’ll play early. Lets not forget that in our backfield we’ll have 3 backs that can catch the ball because I’ve not even mentioned Southerland at FB. I apoligize because I’ve taken up so much space I’ll tighten things down. I still have a few comments to make and predicitions for our “O”.

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Mathew What Moreno gives us is what we havn’t had since Musa Smith, a back who can bust up a defense and get the yards when the d knows it’s coming.It’s no coincidence that Richts best year was Musas last.I posted yesterday that King is the more unique talent, but Moreno fights for every yard,runs low but with high knees,but most of all he sees the field,knows what players have the angle to tackle and fights like all hell to stay on his feet.

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Matthew ps I did consider ‘random task’ but I’m more old school!

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Oddjob, what does that mean “Richt’s best year”? In terms of what?

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg 10 and 2, conference title, bowl win, and #3 final ranking.

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg I posted wrong the record that year was 13 and 1 not 10 and 2

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

Altamaha, let me guess, you’re the guy that never questions the coaches decisions and gets huffy when others do? Do I have that right? What was insane about the rotation, and what any running back will tell you, is that they need carries to get in the game. Buck, I’m not calling for 30, because those days are long gone, both in the NFL and NCAA. But you cannot get a guy in there for one series, then another guy in there for one series, and then put another guy in there. How can you expect any kind of a rhythm to happen? How can you expect the guy who’s been sitting for a quarter to pick up the pace of the game when it’s his turn again? Altamaha, it’s bad football. Now, when people are talking about a two-back system like it’s something new to football, they’re talking about one guy getting 20 to 25 carries, and then a capable back-up coming in for about 5 to 10 carries. People think it’s new, but it’s not. The Dawgs need to have a system like that. Have your guy, your main guy. Have him win the job, as it should be, and just stick with him! Let him get in a rhythm, and he might actually bust a few. Altamaha, it doesn’t take a genius (just a guy with perspective and the ability to see a bad coaching decision no matter who the coach is) to see why the Dawgs haven’t had very many long runs the last 4 seasons since Musa left. The reason why the Dawgs have finished closer to last in the SEC than first in rushing yards per game, and just about dead last in long runs (20 or more yards) is because of this INSANE RB rotation. A guy needs carries. It’s as simple as that. That’s good football sense. And as much as Mark Richt does a lot of things right, he’s screwing the pooch with having 3 RBs. Have two. Have the guy who’s going to run 20 times, and the guy who’s going to spell him. You cannot expect a guy to look great coming out of the gate all of the time. Not even Herschel was expected to go 60 yards in the first series. You need to have your guy, and stick with him.

So, there it is, Altamaha. A little football medicine. It may be hard to swallow for the devote. But for us realists, it rings true.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

2002 was a great year indeed. Musa was certainly valuable, but not sure about the absolute comparison your making. We had a whole lot more passing yards in that season too. We had a whole lotta everything. In fact the run production was only down about a 100 yrds or so for the next couple of years without Musa, and Richt’s best team rushing yards wise was actually 2005, which was pretty good too. I’d say for a couple of untimely injuries would have very well been the best season since coach took over. And that was using run by committee. I TOO want somebody to get the ball 2O times and have 2000 yrds, I’m just not convinced that is the only way to have success on the ground attack.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

devout… sorry

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

AltahamaDawg Yards don’t tell the whole story,you need the kind of back for the tough short yardage situations.Where I might not agree with Matthew 100% is with Richt’s options. I don’t know that he’s had the back needed to carry the load.Lumpkin maybe before the injury or Ware also before his injury but Brown isn’t a guy who I think can fill that roll.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Matthew I guess no need to practice as we preach huh?. All I asked was a simple question. So its just you being rational or disagreeing, but if I ask a simple question (simply pointing out that “insane” doesnt really seem appropriate) you insult my personality, huh? to quote you….”Was I meanspirited? Did I insult you? No, I disagreed with you. (which i really didnt, i just asked a question)Come on man.”

Personally, I think you are just mad at me because I questioned your logical evaluation of the sprint draw.

As far as rushing yards, you need to check your facts, way WAY off. The fact dont back you up.

BTW, you have a long long line to stand in here to even see the front of the realist gang. I’m a charter member in here. Reality is not calling something that has been successful “insane”. Insane, as in mentally out of touch. Our running back situation has been developed by somebody that is mentally imcompetent? really?

I’m not even going to go into the REALITIES of injuries and supporting personel that has forced our RB rotation over the past years. If all that you say is SOOOOOOOOO obvious, wouldnt a professional head coach also know that. As oddjob pointed out, we did run one guy when we had THAT guy. Is it al ALL possible that while one guy might be prefered, that circumstances might have forced the direction to be modified from time to time? Is it at all possible that some of those very circumstances might also not be obvious to somebody who doesnt work with college running back for a living? Or is that “insane”?

And rotating Brown and Williams at Auburn ? insane?

We will certainly get along better if you simply answer my very polite question, and leave your condesending attitude in the dorm room. Trust me, this ain’t my first Rodeo. Where you even around to see Herschel?

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

oddjob, I agree that yards dont tell the entire story, but they are what they are. When you start getting in to assigning weight to “subjective” things, then the opinions can be wide and far. Just like I say 2005 was every bit the year as 2002. Win total dont tell the whole story either? I’m saying, in term of actual rushing production, we have been okay (very high in the league) using the rotation. And yes to your point, that was what I was saying to Matthew, its not like we had somebody standing on the sideline with his back to the field, ignoring “good football sence” absolutely refusing to give the rock to one guy. We just havent had that guy. I absolutely agree we need that bruiser and I recognize the subtleties in the difference of those arguments.

Its more of a matter of players, and not insanity.

I remember last year everyones outrage when we didnt run Lumpkin over and over in the second half of the KY game. I challanged several folks to review the play by play (nobody took me up) to see that he was absolutely shut down in the 3rd quarter, repeatedely, and we really didn’t move the ball till Ware came in and sparked it. Insanity? Or just trying to win the damn ballgame?

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Guys, I think we’re going to see plays being run out of more formations than we’ve seen since MR has been in Athens. We’ll see a lot of what people saw when he was at FSU and to me, the great thing is that from Bobo on down , the offensive players are likeing it. More chances for touches for ALL of out skill people. The RBs, if they are paying any attention at all should have noticed thaqt the pros are looking for RBs that can give them ALL PURPOSE YARDS! i KNOW i WASN’T THE ONLY ONE WHO SAW “O” SETS THAT I HADN’E SEEN ALL SEASON LONG IN THE 2ND HALF OF THE “CFBOWL”. My slogan for the “O” for ‘07 is “Attack Attack and Hit’um Again”.

By BuLLdawg

March 20, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

I am BuLLdawg, hear me roar. With a waistline too big to ignore.

Grrrr, baby.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

Buck, Jeff Danzler said in an interview, that the week before the UF game, we were practicing things that he guaranteed no Georgia fan had ever seen. It’s just my opinion, but I think its logical, that even though we are developing new wrinkles, we didnt see that stuff till much later because we just werent ready to run it, for a variety of faults. I agree, we will see new stuff this year. We have new players. And returners will be better. So we 100% agree, we will definetely see different things this year.

By BuLLdawg

March 20, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

MaTThew at the SLC, you are SOOOO opinionated. Perhaps you need to tone it down a little, LiTTle BuDDy.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised that Bulldawg hasnt been in here to complimant Mr. Adams on the record setting fund raising this year. It’s prabably going to take another year before banning grass parking start detroying the very fabric of the university. Right after the financial boycott from 2 yrs ago gets into full swing, eh Bull?

By BuLLdawg

March 20, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Alty, Alty, first let me apologize to you for all of the mean things that I have said to you over the last two years. I have recently discovered the Lord and begun the Twelve Steps, and I would like to say “I’m sorry.”

As for President Adams, sure he’s the Anti-Christ, but that’s no reason to be ugly. One day, Mr. Adams will be gone, and all will again be right in DawgLand.

BTW, the financial BoycoTT was a LiTTle, WeLL, hasty. Perhaps, we should reconsider.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

WeLL, deep down I knew you were just intimidated in here. I mean, nobody could be that much of buTThead, right? In terms of contributions, I am not giving another dime tiLL we either fire half the staFF or win a national championship.

By BuLLdawg

March 20, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Alty, now you’re just testing me. I’ve reformed (ReaLLy), and I won’t bite on your rhetorical bait. I’m wise to your sly tricks, FeLLa.

Regarding contributions to the UGA Foundation, we all just have to get over that LiTTle contretemps avec M. Adams, now, don’t we? We all just have to learn to DisagrEE without being DisagrEEable, don’t you think? Sure, Mr. Adams is a BuTThead, but that’s no reason to hurt the fine academic institution that we all love, now, is it?

And while I’m on Step II of XII, let me also apologize to you, Buckster; AfteraLL, you’ve bEEn right more often than I have. I am sOO SoRRy for the mean things that I’ve said to you, tOO.

The New XXXIX

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 20, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

CMR, IMO, made a mistake in leting Amato go back to FSU. Be4fore anybody goes ballistic, he may not have had a chance to because Bowden and Amato go way back. My question is , does a couple of games mean a change has been made. I’m sue that WM & CMR must have had a “come to Jesus” type of conversation but I’m still very con cerned about going into’07 with Martinez being the “DC”.

By Matthew At The SLC

March 20, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Wow, BuLLdawg, that has to be a personal best for you in short blogs. Keep up the good work. And Altamaha, I wasn’t insulting you. Once again, you’ll know when I do, or if I do. Then again, I doubt you’ll give me a reason. As for my numbers being off, look our rushing yards (total) in the last 4 years since Musa has left compared to the rest of the SEC. They’re not where they should be (or would be if Coach Mark Richt would stick with a guy and give him 20 carries a game) and they are very low. So, I’m not way off. And Buck, you’ve hit the nail on the head. And that’s another star in Moreno’s book, in that he can catch the ball coming out of the backfield, which has been a weakness of Lumps. Then again, Brown has shown, when given the chance, that he does well on screens and catching the swing pass or the wheel route. That’s why I think we’ll see him in 4 wideout sets.

By BuLLdawg

March 20, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

Buck, Buck, Buck… . What are we going to with you, Buckster? You nEEd to lighten up a LiTTle … nobody’s going BaLListic about our Dawgs. Sure, I’ve bEEn a skeptic, but MaTTy StaFFord WiLL do just fine next FaLL; y’aLL need to show a LiTTle faith. And you’re absolutely right, Buck, we ALL nEEd to come to Jesus.

The New XXXIX : ]

By BuLLdawg

March 20, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

MaTTy, I’ve always thought of you as my LiTTle protEgE, but you nEEd to take a clue from the ol’ BuLLdawg: you nEEd to lighten up, LiTTle BuLLdawg BuDDy. Strong opinions SOO strongly ExpreSSed can only lead to you being SociaLLy ostracized, too. Going throgh life being mean and surly is just NOT RIGHT. You nEEd to show a LiTTle more generosity of spirit … at least that’s what my new blog counselor teLLs me. : ]

By OddJob

March 20, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg Now you’re just being silly! There is nothing subjective about wins and losses.I see now you just like to debate,well I never cared for pointless academic debates in school and I’m not going to get into some nonsense circular wank-off. I’ll say one thing anybody who understands football knows that ball control is key to winning, and short yardage situations are key to ball control.So if you are going to debate that winning isn’t what makes for the better season,jerk away! just not on my time.

By AltamahaDawg

March 20, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

We had 1954 yards the year Musa did so well, placing us about 9th in the SEC, we fell all of 65 total yards the next year.(10th) In fact we had right at about the same the next year after that and placed about 9th relative to the others in the conference. So with or without Musa or the others, same yardage, same place relative to everyone else, over a 3 yr span. In 05, our best rushing year, we were right there in 3rd place with 2108, barely behind Auburn, who for the most past everyone considered to be a strong running team. I am sure DJ had a bit of that, but thats my point, its more about who you have. I don’t see the overwhelming evidence. Our best year rushing was NOT the year we had a main guy. Now last year mind you, tell me anything we did right. And despite folks NOW in hindsight knowing Brown wasnt it, everyone thought for the world he would be, back in the spring, but things happen. I submit the lack of a 20 carry guy was on a long list of issues. All I am saying is that sometimes, you just have to adjust. And we arent rotating 3 backs, we have rotated 2 and situations have dictated which ones that was. And its all well and good to say we would improve if only we gave the ball to somebody, anybody, 20 times. I just think that backwards logic. We would be better IF we have a guy capable of getting it 20 times a game. My question is this, if you think we have had that guy, and Coach has shown he would if he could, why on earth would he not have been doing that every year so far? I’m not debating why a stud at RB would be a good thing. At the very least, its whats the fans like, myself included, its just more exciting to have that guy, easier to feel the power. But to call our need to rotate out of circumstance, “insane” is well…..that. And do you really think that you understand rythym and groove better that Coach Ball, Callaway, and Richt does? I would be pretty heavy that for any true “realist”, that woudl not ring true.

And yes if makes me an loyalist, so be it, I do think and will not hesitate to call you out when I believe you are unfairly and unjustifiably critisizing the coach on an issue that I can show that you do not have your facts straight, in an effort to appear to be more knowledgable. Especially when its just rehashing an old tired cliche’ that most folks have long ago debated and moved on. Just a little sports blog medicine. Sorry.

By OddJob

March 21, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

AltahamaDawg I started to post a real response but I’m not going around in circles about this, so wank away!

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 21, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

BullDawg, thanks for the nice words and it’ll be fun blogging with you this year……….CMR has said forever that he needs 6 or 7 receivers to run the type of “O” he wanted to. He’s going to have thyem and Most important, the QB that’ll get the ball to them. Bigdawg don’t worry, I know we’ve got to have that mean old “OL” and I think we’ll have. Remember the old days when the majic term was bleed the clock? Today it’s don’t score in a hurry because you’ll give the other team 90 sec. to go 99yds.! Life is fun.

By AltamahaDawg

March 21, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

I thought we were debating running backs getting the ball 20 times agian. If you got hung up on a off handed comment, not even the point, sorry. (And ignored the multiple things I agreed with you on) No need to twist it around to something I wasnt saying though. That really never works very well in here.

If I could point out a few years in UGA past that we had a 20+ carry guy and we actually had a poor record, would that be an relavant too? (if W-L records are all that matter in this debate).

You were the one “subjectifying” the value of Musa, all I was saying is thats just opinion, not evidence of an absolute. And so I am clear, in no place in the history of college football has a team ever had a worse record in a year that they were actually better than in a year they might have won more. Because all other factors always remain constant every year? No other factor could possible be in play?

Who ever said ball control wasnt an issue? Did I? Does Sutherland qualify as a ball control guy? As I recall Musa was a converted full back, and we have a few now. We wont likely ever see any situation quite like that again. One main back does not equal ball control. In fact ball control would seem to be the VERY argument for having a few different guys in the mix.

And likes to debate in a sports debate blog? Who would have thunk it?

By AltamahaDawg

March 21, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Oddjob not sure I’ve ever had anyone react so negatively to me agreeing with them before.

By OddJob

March 21, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

Buck watch for Walter Hill,he could be what Green is supposed to be.I think if used on slants and other quick routes where he can use his big body and great hands he could be one of the best.My thinking is he can give us what Gates gives San Diego in the nfl.

By OddJob

March 21, 2007 12:45 AM | Link to this

Sorry AltahamaDawg I can get cranky at times.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 21, 2007 5:36 AM | Link to this

odd job, thanks, I’d,forgotten all about him . He’ll be one of those 10-14 I’m talking about.

By Buck Cochran in the NW

March 21, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Yhr FB world og today has made some major changes and MR is making mthose changes as we post. Use to be grind out the yards, hold on to the ball s long s you could an try to score. Have to disagree with you on thus Altahama, but a 1 back set is a form og ball control because a lot of options are opened up for the QB. He’ll have 4 or 5 receiver to throw to with a blocker, QB draw possible, quick screen passes etc,etc. Your yeam is still in a position for a ball control “O” but different. The winning TD drive in the “bug” game is a good example.I believe there were 3 maybe 4(not sure how many)plays where we used the 1 back set.

By AltamahaDawg

March 21, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Buck, sorry , but I could not for the life of me understand what you were disagreeing with me about there. Seems more like an agreement. I’m saying we dont HAVE to have a 20+ carry guy. We’ve done equally as well with and without. As far as ball control, my contention last night is that having a main RB isnt the end all to that either. Since Musa in 02 became some sort of “standard” its interesting to me that we had practically identical times of possessions (and lost that battle Vs opponents, both years) AND rushing first down in 02,and 05, two dramatically different years in terms of who got how many carries. I’d say those are 2 stats are pretty good indication of ball control. As you correctly say, there is more than one way to skin a cat.